ABP Ghoshnapatra: Gadkari Opens Up On Rumoured Tensions With PM Modi, Why BJP's First List Didn't Feature His Name

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari opened up on various issues such as his equation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, perceived delay in announcing his name, and more.

In an exclusive interview with ABP News on Tuesday, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari opened up on various issues, including his equation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, perceived delay in announcing his name, and prior speculations surrounding the allocation of tickets to former Union minister Meenakshi Gandhi with the BJP snubbing her son Varun Gandhi.

When asked about his relations with PM Modi and speculation of tensions between them stemming from their respective seniority within the party, he said, "This is baseless. I often speak to PM Modi, the day before yesterday he came for the inauguration of the Dwaraka Express Highway... However, there are those who try to convey their views by trying to make me their medium (Jo log direct teeka karne se darte hain woh mere kandhe par bandook rakh kar apni baat rakhne ki koshish karte hain). But we do not have any differences. We are all working for our ideology, the organisation, and the country".

"Sometimes when I make any remarks, someone misinterprets it and then that is used as the basis for wider discussions, which I don't like. If I have to say something, I say it directly," he added.

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Nitin Gadkari On Why BJP's First List Did Not Feature His Name

After the BJP released its first list of candidates, concerns were raised regarding the absence of Nitin Gadkari's name. Responding to queries regarding the same during ABP Ghoshna Patra, Gadkari clarified, "There is a procedure in the BJP. First, discussions are held with state presidents and all prominent team members of the Parliamentary Board."

He further elaborated that discussions primarily revolved around Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat during the first phase, with key names from these states being announced.

Gadkari dismissed any deliberate omission, stating, "There was no reason or intention behind it. Some opposition members discussed it, but as soon as the list was prepared, my name was included."

When asked about prior speculations regarding the nomination of Maneka Gandhi and the denial of the BJP ticket to Varun Gandhi, Gadkari emphasised the procedural aspect of selecting candidates, stating, "The state team discusses with the Parliamentary Board, and decisions are made step by step. This is a very natural process."

In its fifth list, while the BJP retained Maneka Gandhi as its candidate in Uttar Pradesh's Sultanpur, Varun Gandhi was replaced in Pilibhit by Jitin Prasada. Weeks prior to the confirmation, rumours were rife that the sitting Pilibhit MP would not be repeated by the party.